This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/20/2018.
The Cleveland Indians won their first ever World Series Championship in 1920 defeating the Brooklyn Robins 5-2. Larry Gardner was a key contributor to the team throughout the season playing in a career high 154 games batting .310. This was the award given to players on the 1920 Indians team following their Championship, and is the only known example of its kind. This award played the same role as the World Series rings of today. Before 1922, World Series champions normally received pendants, pins, or some other type of special jewelry item, sometimes more than one. In modern times, of course, the tradition is the presentation of a ring. But in 1920, this finely crafted 14k gold pin served this purpose. The .75 inch diameter 14K gold circular medallion features a baseball diamond with a single small real diamond that has been replaced in the center. Lettered around the baseball-diamond in a circular pattern is "WORLD’S CHAMPIONS 1920." A floral pattern adorns the outer perimeter. Engraved on the reverse is the name of the recipient, "W.L. GARDNER". Properly stamped "14K" and the hallmark of the jeweler, "F. H. Co." The only known example of this particular World Series presentation piece from the Cleveland Indians first Championship. Direct provenance from the Gardner family this pin is accompanied by a LOA from Gardner family.